Sexual Harassment at the Workplace Essay -- Sexual Harassment in the Wo

Harassment and Discrimination at the Work Place Three repair workers at the Facilities Management Division of the Lee County jail filed a series of harassment and discrimination claims after being repeatedly harassed and discriminated by nine co-workers for over three years. After an extensive investigation by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), it was determined that there was sufficient evidence to file a claim in federal court. Now, the United States Justice Department has filed a claim against Lee County in Florida costing tax payers thousands if not, millions of dollars. This is an example of how thriving companies can suffer an unexpected harassment or discrimination lawsuit which can cost them thousands of dollars affecting their bottom line as well as their reputation. As an independent human resources consultant, Santiago-Santos will organize a local education campaign and provide employers with different trainings to educate them and their employees about harassment and discrimination. Educating business owners and their employees is key for reducing the number of claims being filed due to harassment and discrimination. Harassment and discrimination can affect a business in many ways. Having a history of harassment and discrimination claims can damage a business’ reputation and affect its bottom line. It can cost the business current and future clients as well as investors and employees. Depending on the gravity of the claim(s), the process of settling the claim(s) can take anywhere from months to years. Meanwhile, the cost of the settlement and other fees continue to add up. A business might have to compensate the affected parties besides paying court fees and lawyers. The Equal Employment Opportu... ...s, organizing a local campaign wish will provide training about harassment and discrimination for local business will help build a healthier community and possibly improve the local economy. References Clark, C. S. (1991, August 9). Sexual harassment. CQ Researcher, 1, 537-560. Retrieved from http://library.cqpress.com/cqresearcher Glazer, S. (1996, July 19). Crackdown on sexual harassment. CQ Researcher, 6, 625-648. Retrieved from http://library.cqpress.com/cqresearcher/ Kane-Urrabazo C. (2007). Sexual harassment in the workplace: it is your problem. Journal of Nursing Management, 15(6), 608-613. doi:10.1111/j.1365-2834.2007.00725.x U.S. justice department sues lee county over discrimination accusations. (2012, February 06). Naples Daily News. Retrieved from http://www.naplesnews.com/news/2012/feb/06/us-justice-department-sues-lee-county-over/